OCA Parish Ministries Conference to be held at St. Vladimir Seminary July 28-31
The Department of Christian Witness and Service of the Orthodox Church in America will host the “Faith in Action” Parish Ministries Conference at St. Vladimir Seminary, Crestwood, NY on July 28-31, 2004.
Details of the conference along with registration forms were sent to all parishes for interested clergy and lay people from the Office of Protopresbyter Robert S. Kondratick, Chancellor of the Orthodox Church in America.
“The Conference, based on the theme of “Faith in Action!” will provide a unique opportunity for clergy and laity involved in active Christian ministries to exchange ideas and to share the means and methods to initiate new ministries in other parishes,” according to the Donna Karabin, Department of Christian Witness and Service Chairperson, “Through keynote speakers, panel discussions and over twenty workshop topics, the Conference will focus on four areas: Ministry within the Parish, Community Outreach Ministry, Family Ministry and Senior Life and Ministry.”
“Ultimately, our efforts to reach out to the needy and suffering will help to restore their human dignity and bless their lives, all in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” Mrs. Karabin added.
The members of the Department invite those attending the conference to bring photos and examples of their projects to share with others in the exhibit area during the conference.
One of the Department’s hoped for goals is that the Parish Ministries Conference will help to implement its mission statement: “Fanning the flame of Christian witness and service in the Orthodox Church in America by inspiring our faithful through training and resources.”
Two registration rates are being offered: a $100 early registration fee and a $150 fee for registrations postmarked after July 1st. Special registration options are also available for one day or evening participation. Because space is limited, early registration is encouraged. A registration form and general schedule are enclosed.